Football shooting technique
When it comes to shooting in soccer, there are two basic techniques- power, and placement. Depending on the situation, one type of shot may be more appropriate than the other and great strikers are masters at selecting the right type of shot for each given scenario. Regardless of technique, keep in mind that great shooters didn’t become great overnight- they’ve taken thousands of shots and got to where they are through hard work and dedication. Always remember practice makes perfect.
When you’re going for power, the rule of thumb is to hit it with your instep. Powerful shots are most effective when you’re shooting from long distance or if you’re trying to blast it past the keeper. Pick your spot and stick with it. Keep your eye on the ball. Step beside the ball with your plant foot. This should be about a 1-2 feet away and be pointing in the direction you’re going to shoot. Lock your ankle with your shooting foot. For a strong and powerful shot you want your foot to be strong and powerful, hitting the ball like a hammer rather than being flimsy. Strike the ball in between the middle and the bottom. Keep in mind that the more you hit underneath the ball, the higher your shot will go. Follow through with your shooting foot, it should be the first foot to touch the ground after your shot.
In some scenarios, placement over power is the name of the game. This is especially true if you’re in or around the penalty area and you want to tuck the ball away past the keeper with a bit more finesse. The biggest difference between a finesse shot and a powerful shot is the part of the foot that is used to strike the ball. In this case, instead of hitting it with your laces, you’ll want to use the inside of your foot as if you are passing the ball. Pick your spot. Just as with a powerful shot you’ll want to know exactly where you want to place the ball before shooting. Aiming for the corners of the goal is usually the best way to go. Keep your head down and eye on the ball. This will help ensure that you connect with the ball exactly how you want to. Step beside the ball with your plant foot and strike through the center of the ball with the inside of your shooting foot. Don’t be afraid to strike firmly- just because you’re going for accuracy doesn’t mean you can’t put some pace on your shot. Stay calm and follow through with your shooting leg before bringing your head up. With practice you’ll be able to master both techniques and gain confidence in your shooting ability.
The ball is struck with the inside of the foot (instep), slightly toward the inside of the big toe. The body leans into the kick to apply curved spin. A full follow-through is used to generate pace and swerve. The contact point varies: Lower ball contact = higher cross. Mid-ball contact = whipped cross with dip. Standing foot positioned next to the ball. The striking foot is fully extended, with toes pointed down. The knee is over the ball to keep the shot low and controlled. The kicking leg swings fully, with the follow-through aimed toward the target. The upper body leans forward progressively during the strike. The strike is centered on the ball using the instep. A firm, locked ankle ensures solid contact. The kicking foot follows through only slightly, minimizing spin. The body remains slightly upright, creating a "floating" effect. Positioning is key—adjust footwork to meet the ball cleanly. The body leans slightly back for height or forward for low, driven volleys. The timing of the strike determines the power and trajectory.